Matelot Falls

Exploring the dreamy village of Matelot 

An enchanting destination that every Trinibagonian should visit is the dreamy village of Matelot. A place to escape from the busy hustle of city life, relax in the peaceful countryside and be mesmerized by its amasing coastal sceneries. Located 26.7 km west of Toco, at the end of the Toco/Paria Main Road, it is the last community on Trinidad's northeastern coast. Isolated from the rest of the country, its closest neighbour is Grand Riviere situated 5km away. Sometimes during the rainy season, huge landslides can block access to the place and villagers have to walk as far as Shark River to get transportation. Matelot when translated is a French word that means "sailor," and before there was a community, the calm waters at its river’s mouth were a landmark for seamen. The peaceful countryside is timelessly enriched with stunning natural habitats, beaches, rivers, and waterfalls. 

 The village population is approximately six hundred residents who earn their income from fishing, agriculture, and eco-tourism. Crime is almost non-existent since everyone in the community knows each other and looks out for the welfare of the children. Housed in Matelot, there is a school, church, community center, and Police Station. Matelot is the perfect destination for eco-tourism and the village consists of a small group of trained tour guides. However, more promotion is needed in marketing the magnificent highlights of the place. In these remote areas where the internet is limited, more needs to be done in teaching villagers how to use social media to network in their villages.

 The scenic drive along the winding northeastern coastal road can take four hours from Port-of Spain. Along the route, some noteworthy communities are Matura, Salybia, Balandra, Rampanalgas, Cumana, Toco, L Anse Noire, San Souci, Monte Video, and Grand Riviere. Each with its unique characteristics, rich heritage, and natural resources. Enclosed by a high wall of mountains, the sky is the limit in Matelot with lots of adventure for the nature seeker. It’s a place no one wants to leave, a quiet corner to unwind, and a destination to seek relaxation and wellness. 

The leatherback turtle also frequents its beaches to nest and is also an attraction for visitors. Wildlife is abundant and seen constantly running around the neighborhood are iguanas, red-rumped agoutis, and common opossums or manicous. Matelot is also a place to see rare birds and often seen is the pawi or piping-guan (Pipile Pipile), a turkey-like bird 65cm long, which is indigenous to Trinidad. The pawi once hunted to almost extinction, hops from tree to tree, and is an easy target for predators. Most distinct are the various species of butterflies such as the Blue Morpho or Emperor Butterfly, the monarch, and the swallowtail. The various hiking trails coming out from the village leads to breathtaking waterfalls, basins, and secluded beaches. 

 The river mouth situated on the western end provides a constant water supply and is a favourite recreational spot for river limes. Further upstream, a spectacular destination is the Matelot Falls with there are a series of crystal, clear and secluded basins.

 The expedition to the falls will take just under an hour and starts on top of the hill along the old Santa Cruz donkey trail followed by a steep descent to the river. Exploring upstream, beyond the falls one will be amazed by the fascinating pools and gorges. Its virgin waters originate from the belly of the Northern Range. Some of the tributaries that flow into the main Matelot River are the Petite Matelot and Ananas Rivers. The tallest mountain overlooking the western side of Matelot is Ananas Peak, at 440m. Another big river situated on the far western side, and explored mainly by hunters is the Petite Riviere. A nine-mile trek, heading east along the deserted coast can lead to the spectacular Madamas River Mouth. A popular achievement walk among hikers is the 19.7 miles coastal trek from Matelot to Blanchisseuse.

The trek to the falls is suitable for kids seven years and older. Like jackets are recommended for those wishing to venture into the deeper areas of the pool.

On Good Friday, Hamper donations are given out to villagers in need, and hikers visiting are asked to contribute a tin.